INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Fire Department is reminding people not to jump on the back of fire engines after a woman did just that Tuesday.
A driver notified IFD Engine 44 at a stoplight after they saw a woman on the back of the engine "using it for her own personal transportation," IFD Battalion Chief Rita Reith said in an email.
"THIS IS NOT OK," Reith said. "The crew, completely unaware, stopped the engine and kindly asked the woman to vacate the apparatus. They were concerned for her safety and in return, she was less than kind with her remarks to the crew."
If the engine crew would have received an emergency call or need to come to a rapid stop, it could have caused critical or fatal injuries for the woman, Reith said.
The department is reminding people not to enter, step on, or jump on any fire apparatus without permission from the officer in charge.
"Please do not use this post as an opportunity to discuss or debate the concerned motorist - using a phone while driving," Reith said. "We are very much in support of the Indiana Hands Free Driving Law set in place to protect all of us while on the road. We appreciate the motorists concern, making us aware and hope that going forward this is a one-time moment they find themselves in."
